Reason will prevail
The Observer, www.lagrandeobserver.com 20 October 2010
Beware of the wolf in sheep’s clothing! Don’t be deceived by pro-Antelope Ridge wind farm propaganda.
The proponents state that the Antelope Ridge wind farm will generate substantial revenue for our schools. The fact is for whatever money is provided to the schools from Antelope Ridge, an equal amount will be deducted from what is received from the state. There is no benefit to schools. The resulting decrease in property values and property tax revenue could have an adverse affect on school funding.
The proponents state that wind factories will lessen our dependence on foreign oil. The fact is very little oil is used to generate electricity, and the oil that is used comes from low grade domestic production.
The proponents state that wind farms will increase national security. That is so ridiculous it does not warrant a response.
The proponents state that allowing the wind farm supports landowner rights. I believe that the value of property within sight of the windmills will go down. As a property owner I have the right to protect the value of my property. A recent survey in Casper, Wyo., (September 2010) concluded that properties directly adjacent to the Chevron wind towers are now “virtually unmarketable” at “any reasonable price.”
The fact is that this project is all about money for Horizon, the property owners who will lease property to them and a few people who will be employed. Last year EDP/Horizon received $229 million from the Federal Renewable Energy Program (our tax dollars!). Horizon has contributed $10,000 to the pro-wind farm Political Action Committee.
Citizens like myself can only try to educate others and pray for reason to prevail. I have confidence that the people of this valley will make the right choice and vote “no’’ on the wind farm advisory vote, Measure 31-75.
Linda Bond
Union
URL to article: https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2010/10/02/reason-will-prevail/